📰BIDDEFORD | 225 Students Recognized | BRCOT Celebrates Record Number of Students at End-of-Year Ceremony
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By Karen Garnett, Biddeford School Department, Contributing Writer
May 29, 2026, The Biddeford Regional Center of Technology (BRCOT) proudly celebrated the accomplishments of 225 students during its annual End-of-Year Awards Ceremony on May 28, 2026. This year’s event marked the largest group of students recognized in the school's history.
The ceremony honored juniors and seniors from Biddeford High School, Thornton Academy, Old Orchard Beach High School, and Kennebunk High School,who successfully completed either a two-year career and technical education program or a one-year specialty program at BRCOT. Families, staff, community partners, and industry representatives gathered to celebrate students as they prepare to enter the workforce, military service, apprenticeships, or continue their education.
Throughout the evening, students were recognized for excellence within their individual programs, leadership, technical skills, and commitment to their chosen career pathways. In addition to awards and certificates, 33 students received scholarships and financial support to help further their education or purchase the specialized tools, equipment, and supplies needed to launch their careers. Collectively, BRCOT students earned 156 industry-recognized certifications this year, providing them with valuable credentials that will support their future educational and career pursuits.
The evening also featured remarks from Culinary Arts student Nicholas Poulin, who was selected as the student speaker for the ceremony.
Poulin was recently recognized as BRCOT's Student of the Year and honored at the Maine Career and Technical Education (CTE) Student of the Year State Banquet. Throughout his time at BRCOT, Poulin has distinguished himself through his strong work ethic, leadership, professionalism, and commitment to supporting both his classmates and program, making him a fitting representative of the Class of 2026.
“These students have demonstrated tremendous dedication and growth throughout their time at the Center of Technology,” said BRCOT Director Paulette Bonneau. “Whether they are continuing their education, entering the workforce, or beginning apprenticeships, they have gained valuable technical skills, industry experience, and the confidence to succeed in their future careers. Students like Nicholas Poulin remind us that career and technical education is about more than developing technical skills; it is about cultivating leadership, professionalism, and a commitment to serving others.”
The record-setting number of students recognized this year reflects the continued growth of career and technical education throughout the region. BRCOT provides students from four sending communities with hands-on learning opportunities across a wide range of career and technical education programs. Through industry partnerships, work-based learning experiences, dual-enrollment opportunities, and technical training, students gain the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in both college and career settings.
As demand for skilled workers continues to increase, BRCOT remains committed to preparing students for meaningful careers while helping meet the workforce needs of Maine's economy.
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